Mary Cerveny Obituary

Mary Lois Cerveny, 88, born May 5, 1920 passed peacefully from this earth on March 23, 2009 following a long illness. Mary Lois was born in a close knit family to Brent and Sue Anne Denny in Bronston, Kentucky. The youngest of four daughters she excelled at homemaking skills and majored in home economics education and received a Bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky. During World War II she was an Army airplane inspector at Curtis-Wright and met the love of her life, Vincent Cerveny at a USO dance in Louisville. After their marriage in 1944 they moved to the Chicago suburbs where their three daughters were born. They spent 21 years in LaGrange Park, Illinois in the house that they had built. Mary Lois taught home economics at Lyons Township High School for 12 years. In addition to teaching and raising her family, Mary Lois always gave back to the community through her volunteer work with PTA and activities at the 1st Baptist Church of LaGrange. Upon retirement in 1975, Vincent and Mary Lois moved to Sarasota, Florida and enjoyed an active life on Siesta Key. Mary Lois originated many social activities at their condominium complex designed to bring residents together. Her personal strength and faith sustained her during the difficult years through her illnesses beginning with a stroke in 2005. She was a loving mother and wife and a dedicated friend who listened well. She was a master at creating delicious meals and sewing clothes for her family. She delighted in working with her hands making handmade cards, quilts and knitting sweaters. During her life she touched many people with her warmth and compassion. She is survived by her daughters; Rosanne (Larry) Francis, Noreen (James) Bushouse and Linda (Ron) Vanek, grandchildren Jason (Heather) Bushouse, Josh, Brad and Julie Vanek, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by Vincent, her husband of 50 years, her three sisters, Stella Jean Gibson, Flossie Fortney, Amelia Elder and grandson, Isaac. Services were held in Sarasota, Florida and burial was at the Bronston, Kentucky Baptist Church cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Pines Shores Presbyterian Church, 6135 Beechwood Ave, Sarasota, Fl. 34231